A Healthy Or An Unhealthy Lifestyle Change–It’s YOUR Choice! (Episode 112)
14 02 2008If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to our RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!
Junk food or steak? It’s really all up to YOU!
cc photos courtesy of Flickr users Chrissy Marie and mamamusings.
Hello and welcome to the world’s hottest low-carb podcast, “The Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore!”
In today’s show, our host Jimmy Moore looks at the latest research from the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) asserting that those who are eating an unhealthy diet tend to eat the same kinds of foods without regard to their economic status. That’s right, rich and poor alike are eating the exact same sugary, breaded-and-fried crud. This completely flies in the face of the popular assumptions that poverty has a unique effect in creating poor dietary habits or conversely that obesity is caused by “affluenza.”
What’s Jimmy’s take away message on this? Simply that eating poorly is a lifestyle choice made by individuals–exactly the same as eating healthy foods is. Jimmy’s made his choice to start livin’ la vida low-carb–so what’s yours? Let us know in the comments section and you will become eligible to win one of three copies of the e-book version of Jimmy’s debut book Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat to Sensationally Skinny in One Year.
PLEASE NOTE: Our next episode will be on Tuesday, February 19. We are taking the 18th off for President’s Day!
LINKS MENTIONED IN EPISODE 112
- Leave a comment for Episode 111 for your chance to win Jimmy Moore’s e-book
- News story about the UK study on lifestyle choices
- Related blog post: Is Poverty Promoting Pudginess?
- Related blog post: Obesity: A Product Of Affluence Or Poverty?
- Related blog post: Are Weight And Wealth Connected?
Did you miss anything Jimmy said? Don’t worry, there’s a full transcript waiting for you — just click the following link!
Transcript of Episode 112:
Coming up…a healthy or an unhealthy lifestyle change–it’s YOUR choice!
Welcome back to Episode 112 of “The Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore.” I appreciate all the great feedback from Monday’s podcast featuring my interview with Phill Novak who lost 192 pounds on his own homemade version of a low-carb diet and exercise plan. So many of you appreciated the energetic enthusiasm of this man whose life was forever changed for the better since he started livin’ la vida low-carb and his inspiring story should serve as a motivational factor for anyone who wishes to lose weight and get healthy themselves. Don’t forget to leave a comment about Episode 111 in the show notes section at TheLivinLowCarbShow.com for your chance to win one of three copies of the e-book version of my debut book about my low-carb weight loss journey called LIVIN’ LA VIDA LOW-CARB: MY JOURNEY FROM FLABBY FAT TO SENSATIONALLY SKINNY IN ONE YEAR. We’ll be giving those away next Monday, so get your comments in before the end of the weekend. Good luck everyone!
Today I wanted to share with you about a study from the preeminent British government health authority last year that concluded something I really never thought much about before. Here’s what it is: whether it’s a healthy or an unhealthy lifestyle change–it’s YOUR choice. Hmm… The study takes a look at how the poor actually eat the same amount of nutritional garbage as the rest of the population, despite the negative stereotype that poverty promotes pudginess. And the fact is there are both fat rich people as well as fat poor people. Looking at this idea of a weight and wealth connection from an objective position is the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK–the British equivalent of the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. They conducted a study whose results were published in July 2007 showing that making a poor personal decision about diet is as much a lifestyle change as changing to a solid nutritional approach like livin’ la vida low-carb.
This is something I never really thought about before, but it makes sense. The concept of “lifestyle change” is indeed within the framework of virtually every successful diet and health story because you can’t go back to your old ways ever again and expect to keep your weight and health under control. Until you realize your previous choices are what got you to be obese in the first place, then you will NEVER reach your fullest potential by gaining a real handle on this aspect of your life. Now, the very same thing can be said about making bad dietary choices, too. The FSA researchers have been looking closely at the specific foods consumed by the members of the lowest 15 percent income bracket since early 2006 to determine what if any differences there are between this group and their wealthier counterparts. When all was said and done, the FSA noticed that the wealthy and the unwealthy all consumed an excessive amount of sugary sodas, fat, and sugar. Their conclusion: People are making a conscious CHOICE to eat unhealthy.
What will likely happen next as a result of this study is a change in government policy concerning dietary recommendations. Oh how I wish the FDA and USDA here in the U.S. would follow suit because it is obvious the current path we are taking is just not working. But the protection of the food manufacturers’ best interests is superceding the concerns for the general public at this point, so we are at an impasse. It’s not impossible to break, but it will take a major shift in thinking by everyone involved. We’ve already seen it happen with the American Diabetes Association last month recommending a low-carb diet alongside low-fat diets and we recently heard that the government health authorities in Sweden have given their blessing to the low-carb lifestyle for people struggling with their weight. So it’s only a matter of time before that happens in our government as well. We can only hope.
In the UK, the food companies are starting to quake in their boots bracing for what this will mean to their bottom line. As well they should be worried because there is a certain cause and effect factor at work here that nobody ever talks about. The study found that the number of overweight and obese among the study participants was identical to the most recent statistics for the country as a whole:
- MEN–62 percent
- WOMEN–63 percent
- BOYS–35 percent
- GIRLS–34 percent
Two-thirds of the children get empty calories from sugary soft drinks and fruit juice, although the study found soda consumption dropped among the older participants. Also, cakes and other sweets comprised 14 percent of adult caloric intake among study participants–higher than the recommended daily allowance.
Total fat intake, something the FSA made a big deal about but shouldn’t, was as follows:
- MEN–79.1g
- WOMEN–59.4g
- BOYS–76.7g
- GIRLS–67.0g
The primary sources of fat among the adults in the study was meat and meat-based products (24 percent), cereal (18 percent), dairy (18 percent), fatty spreads (15 percent), and chips/potato products (9 percent). Interestingly, the FSA found these poorer people actually get MORE vitamins and minerals from their food than what is recommended. However, there is an iron, folate, and vitamin D deficiency among this group which is common amongst the entire population. Another area of the diet which falls miserably short is fiber consumption with over half of men and over two-thirds of women not getting the recommended minimum of 18g daily in their diet. There is debate over the value of eating high amounts of fiber, but I happen to think it is an important part of a healthy lifestyle that should not be completely ignored. With obesity-fighting measures being stepped up thanks to research like this from across the pond in Great Britain, look for the food manufacturers there to feign concern over the issue and make mostly symbolic gestures about caring about the subject. I’m not convinced it’s gonna do anything to bring about meaningful changes, but that’s just the cynical man inside of me screaming for REAL change to FINALLY come about. We are approaching a place where any chance for an obesity turnaround may NEVER happen, so something’s gotta give. I’m optimistic that solution will come when the medical community begins seeing the evidence from the science as well as the lives of real people being transformed by following plans like Atkins, Protein Power, South Beach, and other carbohydrate-restricted diets that are making a positive impact on the lives of people like me and Phill Novak.
I don’t know why food companies get so uptight about studies like this because it can help them cater to a customer base that would become loyal to their health-conscious products if they do. At some point, these people who are overweight or obese will want to lose weight and will be looking for foods that will help them do that. The smart food companies know this and are meeting the consumer demand while others only pretend to care and keep pumping out junk. ARGH! That’s where the individual must evaluate what is best for them before making unwise choices about what they will eat. Obesity has always been about individual responsibility to me and people must make the decision about what’s best for them. Those who are obese CHOOSE to remain that way and each person must CHOOSE to treat their obesity when they are ready to do it. Grab that bull by the horns and MAKE IT HAPPEN once and for all! So remember this: It’s a lifestyle change whether you choose to be healthy or unhealthy. Which way will YOU choose?
That’s all the time we have for Episode 112 of “The Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Show with Jimmy Moore.” So what do you think about the issue of CHOOSING to make a healthy or even an unhealthy lifestyle? Do you buy into this either/or scenario or is there an in between? Share your comments in the show notes section of today’s podcast at TheLivinLowCarbShow.com and let’s talk about it. THANK YOU for listening and tune in Monday for another show full of education, encouragement, and inspiration for your low-carb lifestyle. So, until next time, keep on livin’ la vida low-carb!
Popularity: 25% [?]
From over 400 pounds to 230, Jimmy Moore is 
I have made a conscious choice to eat the right food for my health. I need to bring my cholesterol down from 350+ and keep diabetes away (parents and siblings all had type 2). Weight loss would be great but it hasn’t happened. I think hormones may be at fault there. I sure hope to lose some sometime.
Thanks for the report Jimmy! Donna
I find your website to be the most insightful and informative. It really touches on the issues that effect weight both positive and negative. Keep up the good work. I am inspired.
Hello, Mr. and Mrs, Moore!
I make an effort every day to eat as healthy as I can for my body’s needs. Well, today was an exception to the rule being Valentine’s Day but I came to the conclusion eating junkie food isn’t the way to go for me. I know I can do better and I don’t need a lot of money to buy good quality food. Eating clean is the best choice for me and will continue to be throughout my life.
Take care.
Lora
Hang in there Donna! Be super-sensitive to EVERYTHING you are eating and consult with people who have been successful to see if they can help you figure out why the weight loss is not happening. Join my “Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Discussion” forum to find that support.
THANKS so much for that comment Mark Henry! I appreciate you listening.
Lora, keep that perspective today and everyday for the rest of your life and you’ll have no problem managing your weight and health with relative ease.
DonnaJo
The Atkins diet works because of and is about insulin control. Being diabetic as I am too your insulin is out of wack. Please read the Atkins diet book and you will see why you are stalled in your weight loss and what to do about it.
Living low carb is definitely a “lifestyle change”. I eat better now than I ever have. What you put in your mouth is a choice; think before you eat!!!
Great point, Carl! THANKS for sharing your comments.
You got it, Linda! I appreciate hearing from you as always.
Hey Jimmy…
That was a great show…
It’s been a couple of weeks since I’ve been here.. I’m playing catch up.
I gained 1 lb this week.. but know what I did wrong… This week I’ve incorporated exercsie back into my lifestyle…. Also, choosing the right foods to eat..
I think the study shows that either with money or without it.. people are still eating the same way… UNHEALTHY!!! It is a choice.. and it’s a choice we have to make each and every day! Today’s lifestyle is so face paced that we are all seeking out “quick fixes” for breakfast, lunch and dinner.. along w/snacks!
I’ve noticed that it takes more time preparing my meals.. because I am choosing to eat healthy and what I am choosing isn’t a grab n’go item.. unless it’s a piece of fruit… It’s surely the RIGHT choice!!!
:) Thanks for keeping us informed!!!!
Cathleen
Absolutely it’s a choice Cathleen and we should slow down to enjoy life more. If we all did that, then weight and health issues would not be as prevalent. WELCOME BACK!
I am absolutely convinced of the value of eating low-carb, but I must admit that I am put off by the idea of spending a lot of money on a low-carb diet. Macaroni and cheese is cheaper than steak. If I can eat low-carb without bankrupting myself, great, but I’d like to see some numbers on that first.
I am surprised by the Brits discovering that wealthy and poor alike make bad food choices. I have always assumed that, if you have money, you spend it on the good things in life. Who would want a bag of potato chips when he or she could have filet mignon?
One thing’s for sure, sugar is addictive, no matter what level of society you live at. Over the past ten years, it has contributed directly to my being eighty pounds overweight, and the sooner I can break the habit, the better.
Edith, you made some very salient points there and I appreciate it! You hit it on the head when you talked about the addictiveness of carbs and specifically sugar. It is DEVASTATING our nation’s health.
I understand that it’s my choice and my responsibility to eat appropriate foods, but I’m afraid that eating what I need to lose weight is leaving me without the vitamins, etc. that I’m supposed to get. I read an article here about what nutrients a woman should get and the only way I can get them is by taking supplements. I’ve read a lot about the importance of antioxidants, omega 3’s , etc. What do you think?
Losing weight has to be a consciouse decision on your own personal part. You can not give up in well doing. Sometimes you just have to staty away from the scale. If you feel you cannot afford to eat low-carb meals. You are wrong! You can make soups with low carb vegetables like chicken and zuccini with spices. Or a egg omelet with chicken peices to stretch the eggs and add additional protein. You can eat Spaghetti squash steamed or boiled, cut it open and string it with a fork. Add cream a cream cheese sauce made with half and half. for something sweet you can use cinnimon and splenda with a pat of butter on it. its deliciouse! Use different combinations with your food. You do not need to eat steak at every meal. You can use chicken and eggs if red meat is to expensive. Its your health. You can cut corners. and you definately need to get moving walking for 15 minutes everyday to start then add 10 minutes after you feel comfortable doing 15 minutes. Then gradually add 10minutes each day for 10days untill you are up to 1-hour. Walk when it is cool and convenient otherwise you will get to hot and tired and want to give up. Gradually speed up your pace after one week and time yourself. Set small goals for yourself. I like to use my clothes size or rings to see if I am loosing weight. This to me works better than the scale. The scale can be a real bummer…I want to keep positive and on track so I do not go by the scale. I stretch while I am sitting in a chair at work I take my 3lb hand weights that I bought at wallmart for less than $10.00 and use them to tone my body while I am sitting on breaks. I park far away from the stores so I can get extra walking in. I sometimes just walk through the mall not to buy anything just to window shop and get my walking in. I try anything I can. I also floss and clean my teeth after everymeal. This discourages me to eat between meals. It keeps my dental hygein up and gives me clean fresh breath, and keeps me from wanting to snack and get them dirty again. Its all choices we all have to make for ourselves to live lighter, healthier and better. Life is what YOU MAKE IT…YOU HAVE TO BE CREATIVE AND FIND WHAT WORKS FOR YOU. ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS IS FOR YOU…
Good choices for a lifetime will be an example to your friends and family and will make your life exciting, energetic and fun…
Remember You are the one who deserves a fun, exciting, wonderful life and its YOU who can do it for your self.
Love yourself by caring for yourself…
Sophia Farah
for a fresh zero carb drink with no calories. Wallmart has drinks you can make for a small fraction of the cost of Crystal light. and they are deliciouse. They are made by Smart Choice and come in several different flavors, including ice tea. I especially like the Cherry flavor you can add strawberries and in a blender with Vanilla protein powder (zero carb formula from Costco) Blend it with ice and its deliciouse you can add blue berries as well. They come in all flavors like crystal light. Less expensive and just as good. Light and Fit makes a great Yogurt in tiney sized cups for a snack instead of ice cream and it has zero carbs. Its made with splenda and has limited calories of 40 per cup. Make a pancake with eggs and egg whites beated until light and fluffy..fold in vanilla, egg yolks and splenda. You can add some fruit if you like like frozen strawberries and or blueberries drained first and thawed. add 1tsp of baking powder and fold it in. cook just like you do pancakes at a cooler temp with a lid. Keep your eye on it until slightly firm and turn over with a spatula. Make your own whip cream with splenda and whole cream. Or use a sugar free syrup you can find it at the 99 cent store sometimes. A tip make sure you prepare your food the night before you go to work so that you are prepared a head of time. and stay away from carrots, alot of people think carrots are low calorie and they are, but they are one vegetable high in carbs and sugar. Splenda will definetly help you get away from your sugar addiction by it on sale when ever you can whether you need it or not and keep it with you and work in your purse, car, home etc. I like the packets. I hope these tips help you, They work for me.
Remeber this is for YOU To Live the fabulous life we all dream of. Be creative and have fun with your new goals,,,Summer is almost here and you want as much fun as the rest of us…Do It For YOU…..You Deserve it!!!
Sophia Farah
Poverty does contribute to Obesity and poor health. Take a look at all the bread discount stores, notice that rice potatoes, bread sugar and allmost all pastries and frozen entries are on sale. Beans, rice, tortillas, french breads and potatoes are made for those marathan runners who train 3 to 4 hours a day. Not for the average person. When you see these foods think of poison. Because this is what it is… all the salt and preservatives are their for shelf life not for your benefit…Please heed my warning and stay away from them!!! They contribute to heart disease, skin and dental poor health, Aging, tiredness, high or low sugar, wrinkles, altzheimers, ADHD, Obesity and DEATH…..Remember THis is Your Life, YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR VITALITY…LIFE IS WHAT YOU WANT TO MAKE IT…WHY NOT MAKE IT A GOOD ONE!!!!!!! BE GOOD TO YOUSELF…..YOU ARE THE ONE WHO WILL DETERMINE YOUR OWN VITALITY TODAY AND TOMORROW….WHY NOT START NOW…
Sophia Farah